|
Keoladeo Ghana Bird
Sanctuary at Bharatpur is one of the most important breeding
and feeding grounds for migratory birds in the world. More
than 30 sq.km of shallow lakes and scrubby woodland harbour
over 350 bird species from as far away as Europe and Siberia.
It is possible to see 150 species in a day and as many as 10
species nesting in a single tree. The main migratory season is
from mid October to mid February, but many residents nest and
breed in the sanctuary during the hotter months and monsoon.
The sanctuary owes its origins to Maharaja Suraj Mahl of Bharatpur.
He modified Lake Keoladeo using a system of dykes and sluice gates
to produce an artificial swamp during the 19th century.
The resultant habitat provided ideal feeding grounds for huge
numbers of birds, and a large bag for Suraj Mahl, who retained shooting
rights until 1972. Bharatpur was given National Park status in
1982 to control visitors, and offer protection from illegal
grazing. The sanctuary was declared a World Heritage Site in 1985
and is widely held to be the best birding site in India.
The final pair of ‘trademark’ Siberian Cranes have not visited
Bharatpur in the last few years however there is still so much
more to see.
One of the most visually exciting sights
is the Keoladeo Heronry with six different species of herons
and egrets. Nesting alongside are Painted Storks, Ibises,
Spoonbills, Jacanas and Cormorants, together with terrestrials
including a variety of Babblers, Warblers and Bee-Eaters.
|
|
|
|
As the lakes, or 'jheels', begin to dry
out Sarus Cranes arrive to feed on the rising insects, the
courtship dances of the tallest flying bird in the world are
spectacular.
The influx of migrants does vary with the
weather, particularly the abundance of the monsoon, and if
water levels are low some local migration occurs. Aside from
water fowl there are over 30 bird of prey species, in addition
to owls and vultures.
Although Bharatpur is a showcase for birds
there is other wildlife worthy of a mention; resident mammals
include wild boar, nilgai, sambar, chital, mongoose, lesser
cats and civets. Food sources for this profusion of life are
equally varied, from plankton to plants, insects, fish,
amphibians and reptiles. The park is
refreshingly free of any motor vehicles. Walking and cycling
along raised embankments offers a unique opportunity to get
closer to the rich birdlife. Many people choose a cycle
rickshaw, which has the added advantage of providing a local
bird expert. Boats are also available, depending on water
levels and provide a different and illuminating view of the
amazing diversity of bird life in the park.
The park lies between Delhi and Ranthambhore and is only 50km
(an hours drive) from Agra, the ancient Moghul city of
Fatehpur Sikri is also nearby. The Bund Bhareta Reservoir and
National Chambal Sanctuary offer further wildlife
opportunities for those with an additional day or two to spend
in the area. There is another location not on the tourist
route that may be of interest to some; the Bhalu Sanraksharna
Kendra Bear Sanctuary is just outside Agra. There are more than 50
sloth bears being cared for who used to be forced to ‘dance’ on
the road between Bharatpur and Agra. |
